Steelers OLB Coach Search: C.J. Ah You Interviewed

The Pittsburgh Steelers are searching for a new outside linebackers coach, and their sights are set on C.J. Ah You, currently the outside linebackers coach at Texas Tech. This development comes as the Steelers evaluate potential replacements for Denzel Martin, who has also been linked to the Dallas Cowboys.

A Familiar Face in the Coaching World

Ah You’s interview with the Steelers is scheduled for Tuesday, according to reports. He recently interviewed with the Cowboys on Friday, indicating he is a candidate for multiple NFL teams. Ah You brings a diverse coaching background, having served as interim defensive coordinator for Texas Tech in 2024.

Did You Know? C.J. Ah You played for the St. Louis Rams from 2007-2011, accumulating 41 tackles and six sacks during his NFL career.

From Player to Coach

Prior to his time at Texas Tech, Ah You held coaching positions at Oklahoma (beginning in 2015), Vanderbilt (2016-2018), the XFL’s New York Guardians, and USC. His playing career included stops at BYU and Oklahoma before reaching the NFL.

Potential Impact on the Steelers’ Draft Strategy

Should Ah You be hired, it could influence the Steelers’ approach to the upcoming NFL Draft. Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a projected middle-round pick, could become a more prominent target for the team given Ah You’s familiarity with his skillset. Ah You has also coached David Bailey, a projected top-five pick, and Romello Height, considered one of the best EDGE players available in the draft.

Expert Insight: The Steelers’ interest in Ah You suggests they are prioritizing candidates with both college and professional experience. His background as a former NFL defensive end could offer a unique perspective in developing their already strong outside linebacker group, featuring players like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.

While Ah You has no prior professional relationship with Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy, his success in college coaching and NFL playing experience make him an intriguing candidate. This interview represents the first reported candidate for the outside linebacker coach position.

A Connection to the Current Defensive Coordinator

An interesting link between Ah You and the Steelers’ current staff is his previous coaching relationship with Tyree Wilson. Wilson was coached by Ah You in college and later drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders, where current Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham served as defensive coordinator.

What Could Happen Next

If the Steelers move forward with Ah You, he could be tasked with further developing a talented group of outside linebackers, including T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and Jack Sawyer. It’s possible the team will continue interviewing candidates before making a final decision. Alternatively, the Steelers may choose to pursue other coaching options if they deem Ah You is not the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What position did C.J. Ah You play in the NFL?

C.J. Ah You played defensive end for the St. Louis Rams from 2007-2011.

Which other NFL team has interviewed C.J. Ah You?

The Dallas Cowboys interviewed C.J. Ah You on Friday, per reports.

Who is the current Steelers defensive coordinator?

Patrick Graham is the current Steelers defensive coordinator.

How might a change in coaching staff impact a team’s draft strategy?